The influence of three cross-pollinators on seed content of Minneola tangelo (Citrus paradisi x C. reticulata)

Abstract

The influence of cross-pollination by Clementine, Empress and Valencia on the seed content of Minneola tangelo was inves­tigated. Clementine and Empress had the largest influence on the average seed content of fruit while that of Valencia was minimal. The average seed content of the fruit decreased with increasing distance from the pollinator. The three cultivars in this study can be used as cross-pollinators. A specific distance should be allowed between the cultivar and cross-pollinator to ensure fruit with acceptable seed content and fruit size for export.